Spanish government to sell 25% of Hispasat to Abertis

Spain’s government has reached an agreement to sell 25% of the satellite company Hispasat to Abertis, which directs Salvador Alemany and already has the majority shareholding with 46% of the capital.

The president of SEPI, Ramon Aguirre, confirmed the decision to dispose of its stake in Hispasat. "There is a line within the government in making a divestment of Hispasat," Aguirre said in a clear reference to the apparent approval of the three ministries involved in the satellite company (Defence, Finance and Industry).

Although no one has officially stated the amount of the transaction, market sources indicate that the state's stake in the satellite operator - 27.5% - could be worth around €150m.